We understand it can be nerve-racking to speak to a solicitor about your personal life, especially when you are already dealing with the end of a relationship. We also understand that some of the words used are so out of date that it can make it feel even more confusing. You may have heard of the changes, brought in on 6 April 2022, which have modernised the divorce process and brought it more in line with the world we live in today. These changes include making divorce ‘no fault’ by removing the need to blame the other spouse or wait years in order to divorce. It is hoped that by removing the need to evidence that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, by referring to facts such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour, divorcing couples can separate more amicably and focus on the more important issues like their children and the financial settlement.
Our experienced solicitors have always tried our best to use clear, straightforward English to explain complicated topics but now the law has started catching up! The divorce petition is now called a divorce application, and the petitioner (the person who brings the divorce) is now called an Applicant. The decree nisi (the document given when the court has decided that a divorce should be granted in principle) is now called a conditional order and the decree absolute (the final divorce document which ends a marriage) is now called a final order.
Final(order)ly things should be clearer for divorcing couples!
Apologies for the poor jokes, we’re much better at law!
If you want clear, no-nonsense advice from an experienced, approachable solicitor contact our team today on 01204 920106 or email familydepartment@afglaw.co.uk.